Choosing the Right Case to Mod - Buying Proper Modding Materials and Bezel
(Page 2 of 4 )
Inversely, if you’re like me, you don’t particularly care for pre-mods much. A true case mod is not a matter of after-market upgrades as much as creating an original concept design and implementing it. However, before any project can begin in earnest, an appropriate case needs to be chosen and there are a lot of factors I consider when I look to modding a one-of-kind creation.
Purchasing a case to mod is significantly different than buying a case to put your computer into. A number of the most important factors that need to be present in a case for a standard build need to be forgotten. Factors such as airflow, style, and chassis design are irrelevant to a person planning to mod their case as these issues are often addressed in the course of the mod. It’s easier to add front air intake than it is to take it away.
The first thing to consider in a prospective case to mod is the material the case is produced from. The vast majority of cases are manufactured from low-grade steel with decent tensile strength. These cases are often the most cost effective to purchase and come in the greatest variety of styles and layouts. However, steel can be a very irritating material to cut into with your tools. If you plan to create any complicated designs in the panels a steel case can prove to be very difficult to cut without the pricey assistance of a local water-cutting outfit. Aluminum, on the other hand, is simple to cut and carve with your standard rotary tools and can be easily shaped. However, aluminum cases often cost twice as much as a comparable steel case. Depending on your design the choice between steel and aluminum will be relatively straight-forward.
The bezel on almost all cases will be produced from molded plastic, which is laughably easy to cut and shape. However, certain features should be considered. As computer equipment gets smaller and more disposable most cases aren’t designed with the idea of upgradeability. While most mods are not necessarily designed to be upgraded, the lack of expansion opportunities in the bezel can be problematic. The more optical drive slots you have available the more room you have to design exotic, one-of-a-kind, arrangements for your hardware. These can include 5.25” optical drive trays for your 3.5” hard drives, 5.25” hard drive coolers, fan control units, temperature gauges, miniature LCD displays, and, of course, custom power switches. Additionally, the placement of front input jacks for USB devices is also important for the ever-present jump drive or digital camera connection. Should you have a few Firewire devices or an interest in having front audio jacks ensure that the case in question already has them. While they can be added to a case that didn’t come with them, it’s easier to make sure they’re already there before you commit to your modding project.
Next: Finding Mod-worthy Panels >>
More Computer Cases Articles
More By Remco Degooyer
/ 7 
